Archpriest John Pawelchak fell asleep in the Lord on Saturday, January 17, 2026.
He was born in Terryville, CT, where he grew up as a member of Saints Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Church. Following his graduation from Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, Father John began his ministry in the late 1970s with his first assignment to the Annunciation Albanian Orthodox Church in Natick, Massachusetts.
Over the course of many decades of priestly service, Father John served parishes in Wisconsin, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Maine, and Illinois, dedicating his life to the spiritual care of the communities entrusted to him. He also worked as a professional counselor to those in need.
Father John was predeceased by his parents, sister, and nephew. He is survived by his children and grandchildren.
Services will be held at Nativity of the Virgin Mary Orthodox Church, 416 Ewing Ave, Madison, IL 62060 from 4:30 PM until 8:00 PM on Friday, January 23, 2026 with a Funeral of a Priest served at 6:00 PM.
A Funeral Liturgy will be held at Nativity of the Virgin Mary Orthodox Church at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026, with His Eminence Archbishop Daniel as celebrant.
Burial will follow at Nativity of the Virgin Orthodox Cemetery in Glen Carbon.
Those wishing to honor his memory may send donations to Nativity of the Virgin Mary Orthodox Church, specifying in memory of Father John Pawelchak.
May Father John’s Memory be eternal!